When the Emperor had given him leave to take with him whomsoever he would, his thoughts had at once turned to old Bullet Stopper.

The latter had gladly accepted the invitation.
Behold him now, his huge body astride of an enormous horse--for, although the grenadier was a foot-soldier, he could still ride after a fashion--plodding along through the mud and the wet and the cold on the mission which, if successful, would perhaps enable Napoleon to save the army and France, to say nothing of his throne and his family.
Captain Marteau, or Major Marteau, to give him his new title, had said nothing as to the nature of his mission, upon which they had been dispatched, to the humble comrade, the faithful follower who accompanied him.

He had only told him that it was difficult, dangerous, and of vital importance, and he had explained to him that his familiarity with the country, as well as a warm-hearted admiration and respect for his shrewdness and skill and courage, had caused his selection.

That was enough for the old soldier; dangers, difficulties, were as the breath of life to the veteran.

And he was always happy to follow Marteau, in whose career he took an interest almost fatherly.
The weather was frightful.